- How is the American Dream characteristic of American ideals and philosophy? What are the differences between the materialistic and the idealistic values associated with the American Dream?
Idealistic values associated with the American Dream are the belief that reality is in our minds. This means that beliefs, ideals, principles, and values are far more important than objects such as money.
Materialistic values associated with the American Dream are the belief that all thought and actions are solely caused by objects. The only thing that matters in the world is objects. An example would be money because many people care more about the materialistic things of this world than beliefs, principles, or values.
The difference between the two is that materialistic values are only there for a short amount of time but beliefs and principles, like idealistic values, will always be there no matter what happens because materialism is limited in a way that you can’t be happy living your life based on having the most money. Money doesn’t buy happiness. But idealistic values will always keep you happy because knowing that your family is safe and sound and to reach a goal is better than having only money.
2. What was happening economically and socially in the United States in 1949? Was it fairly easy or difficult to get a job? What was America’s standing in the world?
With the world changing very quickly due to the advances in technology during World War II (1940-1945) what had been a good job or product may have seen it’s last days.
Also with all of the veterans coming back from War and being discharged from the service good jobs were almost impossible for them to find. It may have taken 5 or 6 years or so before the veterans could find a permanent, well-paying job.
3. What is your definition of the salesman? How is a salesman different from someone in another occupation? What attitudes do you think a salesman should have to be successful? What attitudes would hinder him?
It’s basically a guy who sells stuff. He has to move everything to sell something and he doesn’t have a fixed salary. He has to be patient and real gentleman, a gifted speaker. Impatient, short temper, mean, smells bad.
4. What effect do the expectations of parents have on the behavior of their children? In what ways might parental expectations be beneficial? In what ways might they be detrimental?
Parents have a great deal of influence on their children, especially when the children are young.
Some of that influence is beneficial, and other times it is not. Children are very influenceable by the parent’s expectations. Children can be stressed. The expectations can also be too low and not give the extra push the kid will need to become successful. Expectations can be too high for the kid. Some kids will go along with what their parents want for them. Others have a mind of their own. If parents push too hard, they will lose the trust and confidence of their children, and they will go their own way.